NCSC’s Linda Caviness retires

Williamsburg, VA (Dec. 14, 2011) — Linda R. Caviness is retiring Dec. 31 after 33 years at the National Center for State Courts (NCSC).

“Linda has been a driving force at the National Center for years, and while we are happy for her to move into this next phase of life, her work and presence will be missed,” said NCSC President Mary McQueen. “Linda has served as a leader not only at the NCSC, but for the national and international court community. Her contributions will be felt for years to come.” 

Caviness joined the NCSC in 1978 as staff associate, and throughout her three decades of service, she held top positions in several NCSC divisions. In 1982, she moved into Development, NCSC’s fundraising arm, quickly becoming Director of Development and Central Services before being named Vice President of that division.  After serving as Chief Financial Officer, Caviness decided it was a time for a new challenge. She took over as Executive Director of NCSC’s newly established International Programs. In this position, Caviness helped build NCSC’s position in the international court community, overseeing projects in Egypt, El Salvador, Argentina, Honduras, Serbia, Croatia, and other emerging democracies working to establish the rule of law. In recent years, Caviness served as executive director of NCSC’s Knowledge and Information Services and Association Services divisions.

Caviness’ work in NCSC’s International Programs made such a mark that NCSC is establishing an internship bearing her name. In cooperation with the Office of International Students, Scholars, and Programs (ISSP) at the College of William & Mary, the NCSC Linda Caviness International Student Intern will be recruited annually by the National Center from a pool of overseas students enrolled in an undergraduate program at the College. The internship will provide exposure for international students to gain first-hand experience to the workings of the American court system and non-profit organizations through the programs and activities of the National Center.

“Linda helped establish the NCSC’s International Programs Division, which assists emerging democracies with establishing vibrant justice systems overseas,” McQueen said. “Creating an international internship reflects Linda’s values, and will provide a lasting legacy of her impact at the National Center, and furthers her already substantial impact on the local community in Williamsburg.”

The National Center for State Courts, headquartered in Williamsburg, Va., is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the administration of justice by providing leadership and service to the state courts. Founded in 1971 by the Conference of Chief Justices and Chief Justice of the United States Warren E. Burger, NCSC provides education, training, technology, management, and research services to the nation’s state courts.